Introduction

Key points

• Children of all ages need plenty of sleep to grow and develop. School-age children may have trouble learning and developing socially if they don’t get enough sleep.
• Children’s sleep problems can cause stress for parents, who may worry about their children. Parents also may be awake much of the night trying to get a child back to sleep. Their own lack of sleep can affect parents’ focus at work or in school.
• Health problems can cause sleep trouble in children. Examples of these problems include asthma, ADHD, autism, obstructive sleep apnea, and Down syndrome. Talk to your child’s doctor if your child often has trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep.
• Parents can help their children sleep well by having a comforting bedtime routine and consistent bedtimes.
• Parents can help themselves sleep well by learning about sleep routines and about how to reduce stress and relax.

 What can keep children from sleeping well?

 Why is it important for your child to get enough sleep?

 How can you help your children and yourself sleep well?

 Where to go from here

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